Bookmakers in India

How to verify a licence

India does not have a central federal regulator for online sportsbooks. Most operators use international licences from jurisdictions like Malta or Curacao. You must check these yourself to ensure the site is legitimate.

Scroll to the bottom of the bookmaker’s homepage. Look for a regulator’s logo, such as the MGA or Curacao eGaming. A genuine logo should be a clickable link that takes you to the official commission website. Check that the status is listed as “Valid” or “Active”. If the logo is just a static image with no link, do not share your financial details.

Payments and identity checks

Most Indian punters use UPI, NetBanking, or mobile wallets for deposits. These are usually the fastest ways to move money. You must complete “Know Your Customer” (KYC) checks before you can withdraw any winnings.

• Keep a digital copy of your Aadhaar card or PAN card ready for verification.
• Ensure the name on your bank account matches your betting account name exactly.
• Check if the site accepts Indian Rupees (INR) to avoid high currency conversion fees.
• Verify if the site charges “convenience fees” on deposits made via specific Indian banks.

State-level restrictions

Betting laws in India vary by state. While many regions allow online betting, some states like Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have implemented local bans. Even if a bookmaker accepts Indian sign-ups, they may block your specific IP address if you are in a restricted zone. Always check the site’s terms and conditions for a list of “prohibited states” before you register. If you travel between states, your access to the site may change.

Taxes and safer gambling

Under Indian law, winnings from betting are generally subject to a flat tax rate of 30% under Section 115BB of the Income Tax Act. It is your responsibility to report these earnings in your annual tax filings.

For your own safety, use the tools provided by the bookmaker to manage your spending:

• Set daily or weekly deposit limits immediately after joining.
• Use “Time-Out” features if you find yourself spending too much time on the site.
• Look for links to international responsible-gambling helplines listed in the site footer, as dedicated local support services are often limited.
• Check the “Self-Exclusion” policy to see how easily you can close your account if needed.